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Description
Galium Porrigens is a species of flowering plant in the Rubiaceae family. It is commonly known as “sticky willy” or “cleavers” due to its sticky leaves and stems that attach to clothing and animal fur. It is a herbaceous annual or biennial plant that can grow up to 1 meter tall. It is native to Europe and Asia but has been introduced to North America and other parts of the world.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Galium |
Appearance
Galium Porrigens has narrow lance-shaped leaves that grow in whorls of 6-8 around the stem. The leaves are covered in small hooked hairs that give them a sticky texture. The flowers are small and white, and they grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The fruit is a small, round, hairy capsule that contains the plant’s seeds. Galium Porrigens can grow up to 1 meter tall and prefers moist, shady areas.
Care Guide
Galium Porrigens is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. It can grow in hardiness zones 3-8. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the plant back in the fall to prevent it from getting too large.
Common Pests & Diseases
Galium Porrigens is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions. The best way to prevent powdery mildew is to avoid overhead watering and to provide good air circulation around the plant. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, but these pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Galium Porrigens is native to Europe and Asia but has been introduced to North America and other parts of the world. It prefers moist, shady areas and can often be found growing in hedgerows, woodland edges, and along riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Galium Porrigens poisonous?
A: No, Galium Porrigens is not poisonous.
Q: Can Galium Porrigens be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Galium Porrigens can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location.
Q: How often should I water Galium Porrigens?
A: Water Galium Porrigens regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: How do I prevent powdery mildew on Galium Porrigens?
A: To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Related Plants
- Galium odoratum (Sweet Woodruff)
- Galium aparine (Cleavers)
- Galium verum (Lady’s Bedstraw)
References
- “Galium Porrigens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281109.
- “Galium Porrigens.” PlantNet, plantnet.org/tela_botanica/index.php?module=fiche&action=fiche&entite=Galium+porrigens&nom_complet=&id=39062.
- “Galium Porrigens.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/171749/Galium-porrigens/Details.
